Friday Favorite: Pylian Estates Olive Oil

By Lifeasarunningmom @RunningMom6
This is a sponsored post. I received product to review free of charge as a FitFluential Ambassador. I did not promise a positive review. The opinions expressed below are entirely my own. 
In my early years I thought oil was oil when baking and cooking but over the years I have learned, not oils are the same. I learned the benefits of olive oil and that its rich content of monosaturated fatty acids was good for my heart. I also discovered it just tasted better especially on salads. Yes, I have always been an oil and vinegar type of gal for salads. Recently, my oil and vinegar passion has been rekindled with the introduction of Pylian Estates Olive Oil in my life.

As a FitFluential Ambassador I had the opportunity to give this product a try. I was immediately intrigued because I was beginning to wonder that if all oils aren't created the same, are all olive oils created the same? Does its origin, price, etc. reflect any real differences?

First, I was completely impressed by how safely this bottle of olive oil was packed and delivered to my door (and pretty excited to see the FitFluential special label too!). Once I opened it I was even more impressed by the cork top. It was quite classy looking but I later learned that the cork had a special purpose. That cork keeps air out in between uses to prevent oxidization and rancidity. And since it was to be kept in a cool, dark place I found the best place I could in my kitchen and I am certain the dark glass bottle helps with that too.
But what about flavor? It is delicious! I am have been serving it as a side dip for toasty pieces of wheat french bread. My prep is super easy: oil, balsamic vinegar, and Italian seasonings (although last night dear hubby and darling daughter said they would be happier with no seasonings added). I will be prepping things their way tonight!
Pylian Estates is a small family owned business that is determined to control the harvest process all the way from their trees in Greece until the oil is cold pressed and bottled. Each bottle is clearly labeled with its harvest date, the tree location, and the acidity level. For example, my bottle was harvested and pressed on November 28, 2013 (yes, their goal is to harvest the olives and press them within 24 hours!). And my bottle contains single variety Koroneiki Olives from Pylias, Greece.
The oil is delightful with a delicate flavor and I attribute this to the fact that the olives are processed without heat or chemicals and since the oil is not filtered, it retains all the natural polyphenols and antioxidants. This makes me feel good when I put this on my family's plate. A 500 ml bottle is $24.95 and a 750 ml bottle is $34.95 and you can purchase some yourself online. As a mom with a tight budget I would still be willing to purchase this oil for those special occasions when you really want something nice. It is definitely my go to now for salads and bread dippers!
Daily Gratitude: I am thankful for this opportunity to try Pylian Estates Olive Oil.
Daily Bible Verse:Thus you were adorned with gold and silver, and your dress was of fine linen, silk and embroidered cloth You ate fine flour, honey and oil; so you were exceedingly beautiful and advanced to royalty. - Ezekiel 16:13